Local Organizations Host Holiday Celebrations

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Local organizations across Staten Island hosted holiday parties this weekend to get into the holiday spirit.

Here are a few of the holiday parties that took place:

GIOVANNI’S TRATTORIA AND VERRAZANO KIWANIS CLUB

Giovanni’s Trattoria, Eltingville, partnered with the Verrazano Kiwanis Club to host their first Brunch With Santa event on Sunday with two sessions at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. More than 70 people turned out for the festivities which included a gourmet brunch, Hollywood-style snow, photo favors with Santa Claus and free toys to all children who attended.

“It’s important to partner with businesses in the community,” said Steve Argentine founder of the Verrazano Kiwanis club. “Our club is happy to know that children will be receiving the toys we collected this Christmas.”
The Verrazano Kiwanis Club donated 50 toys for the event. The remaining toys will be given out to children who come to the restaurant with their families this week until the toys run out.

“It was a great day all around,” said Frank Rapacciuolo, owner of Giovanni’s Trattoria. “We look forward to giving out the toys this week and thank Steve Argentine and the Verrazano Kiwanis Club for partnering with us.”